Inspect heat pump

Inspect your heat pump to ensure it's running efficiently in both heating and cooling modes.

Why it matters#

Regular inspection catches small issues before they become expensive repairs. A well-maintained heat pump runs more efficiently and lasts longer.

What you'll need#

Tools#

• Flashlight
• Garden hose (for cleaning coils)

Steps#

1. Clear the area around the outdoor unit#

Remove any debris, leaves, or vegetation within 2 feet of the unit on all sides. Trim back any plants that have grown too close.

2. Inspect the outdoor unit visually#

Look for damage to the housing, bent fins, rust, or any obvious problems with wiring or connections.

3. Check the fins#

Examine the aluminum fins around the unit. They should be relatively straight. Severely bent fins restrict airflow.

4. Clean the coils if dirty#

If the coils are dirty, gently rinse them with a garden hose (not a pressure washer). Spray from inside out to push debris away from the unit.

5. Inspect the refrigerant lines#

Check the insulation on the larger copper line. It should be intact with no gaps, cracks, or deterioration.

6. Check the concrete pad#

The unit should sit level on its pad. A tilted unit can cause drainage and operational issues.

7. Listen during operation#

Turn on the system and listen for unusual sounds: grinding, squealing, or loud rattling indicate problems.

8. Check defrost function (heating season)#

In heating mode, the outdoor coil will occasionally frost up—the unit should automatically defrost. If ice builds up and stays, the defrost function may be failing.

9. Inspect the indoor air handler#

Check the filter and replace if dirty. Look around the air handler for signs of leaks or condensation problems.

10. Test heating and cooling modes#

Run the heat pump in both modes briefly to verify it switches properly and produces the expected output.

Pro tips#

• Heat pumps need more clearance than AC units—maintain 2 feet on all sides and 5 feet above
• In winter, keep snow cleared from around the unit
• Heat pump efficiency drops as outdoor temperature drops—supplemental heat kicking in below 35-40°F is normal
• Have a professional service the heat pump annually—they'll check refrigerant, electrical components, and defrost controls

Warnings#

• Heavy ice buildup that doesn't defrost indicates a problem—run emergency/auxiliary heat and call for service
• Never chip ice off the unit—you can damage the coils
• Strange smells (burning, electrical) mean turn off the system and call a technician immediately

When to call a pro#

Schedule professional service annually. Call immediately if: the unit runs but doesn't heat or cool, ice builds up and doesn't defrost, you hear grinding or squealing sounds, the unit cycles on and off rapidly, or you notice refrigerant line issues. Heat pump repairs typically cost $150-600 depending on the component.